By Greg Chabot
Photos Sasha Steadman
Recently, I was talking with a friend about compensators and the need to purchase a threaded barrel to use one. We also discussed how someone living in states that restrict personal freedoms might not be able to buy a threaded barrel. Strike Industries has come up with an innovative solution to that problem: the G3 Mass Driver Compensator that does not require a threaded barrel.
Developed for Gen 3 Glock 17/19 pistols, the Mass driver compensator is unique, as it uses a counter recoil design. As the slide moves back, the compensator moves forward against a spring to reduce felt recoil. After watching a promotional video of this product, I decided to purchase one for a Glock 19 to see if it really works as advertised.
The comp arrived from Primary Arms in a cardboard box with everything needed to install the comp to my weapon. The kit did not come with written instructions, so I watched a short video at the Strike Industries page. Installation took about five minutes. I recommend using the supplied thread locker and be sure to torque the comp screw to 25 lbs/in. The Comp is machined from steel with a manganese phosphate finish which gives it a matte finish. I found no machining marks and no defects in the finish. The comp is contoured to fit the slide and should work with most open bottom holsters. Weight is 3.2 ounces with a length of 1.41 inch. It is manufactured in Taiwan.
Range Report
To test for reliability, I used loads from 115gr to 147gr in regular and +P from various brands. Steel targets were used during testing. The weight of the comp shifted the balance of my weapon, making it slightly front heavy. It did not, however, shift my point of aim to point of impact. Where I put my sights is where the round hit.
The comp did make a difference in felt recoil perception especially shooting +P. There was less muzzle flip shooting double taps and Mozambique drills. While firing, I could feel the forward momentum of the comp pulling the muzzle down. It was very noticeable while shooting one handed. The weapon performed flawlessly with the Mass Driver Compensator. I attempted to induce malfunctions by limp-wristing lighter loads, to no avail.
I did not clean or lube the weapon with a total of 700 round fired. During the first 200 rounds, I would check for loosening of the retaining screw every 50 rounds. I experienced no loosening during testing, nor was there any indication of bullets skipping off the comp. While cleaning after testing, no unusual wear was found on the weapon or compensator.
While trying different lights, the comp did rub on the Olight Valkyrie PL-1 while firing. If you want to use a Glock manufactured light, you have to remove the comp to mount it to the rail. The Streamlight TLR-1 mounted without any issues. I strongly recommend trying out light and holster combinations for fit and function before using this product for carry purposes.
Overall, I enjoyed testing this product. It cut down on felt recoil, and the weapon shot slightly flatter, just as advertised. Would I recommend this product to others? Yes, I feel this is a great option for those on a budget who don’t want to add the expense of an aftermarket threaded barrel for their build. For folks who live in states that restrict their rights, the Mass Driver Comp is legal, as it does not require a threaded barrel that may be illegal to own. The Mass Driver Compensator is only available for the Gen 3 Glock 17 or 19 at the time of this writing.
Greg Chabot is an Iraq Combat Veteran freelancer, writing from New Hampshire.